Arts Legend Ibrahim Mahama Wins GUBA’s “Impact in Visual Arts Award”

Ghanaian contemporary arts icon Ibrahim Mahama has added another milestone to his remarkable global journey, earning the prestigious GUBA Impact in Visual Arts Award 2025 at this year’s Grow Unite Build Africa (GUBA) Awards held in Barbados.

The award, one of the night’s most competitive categories, celebrates individuals whose visionary work significantly advances African identity, creativity, and global cultural influence. Mahama’s recognition comes as no surprise, given his groundbreaking installations, large-scale public artworks, and relentless commitment to preserving and reinterpreting Ghanaian history.

The 2025 GUBA Awards, themed around African resilience, legacy, and global influence, brought together cultural leaders, entrepreneurs, scholars, and changemakers from across the African diaspora. Held in Barbados, one of the Caribbean’s strongest cultural bridges to Africa the ceremony highlighted exceptional Africans whose work continues to spark transformation across continents.

Mahama’s award highlighted his decade-long impact on the global arts scene. From transforming old jute sacks into powerful visual narratives to restoring historic sites such as the Nkrumah Volini and establishing the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art (SCCA) in Tamale, Mahama has consistently used art as a vehicle for healing, education, and cultural restoration. His installations have been showcased in major international exhibitions, reinforcing Ghana’s position on the world art map.

In his acceptance remarks, Mahama expressed gratitude to the GUBA Foundation and dedicated the award to young African artists striving to tell their stories through unconventional mediums. He emphasized the importance of preserving cultural memory and reimagining Africa’s future through art.

“As artists, we carry the responsibility of documenting who we are, where we’ve been, and where we’re going,” he noted. “This award is for every young creative who believes in the power of African stories.”

The moment marked a proud celebration for Ghana, with many applauding Mahama for consistently elevating the country’s creative excellence on the world stage.

As the GUBA Awards wrapped up with performances and tributes to African diaspora heritage, Ibrahim Mahama’s triumph stood out as a symbol of artistic innovation, cultural resilience, and the unstoppable rise of contemporary African art.